1976 85hp johnson shifting problems

[borz80]

This motor runs great but ever since I took the lower unit off to put on a 115 and then put it back on the 85 it will not shift into reverse. I have tried new cables and that is not the problem. I tried adjusting them and that doesnt work either. It seems as though it is almost about to shift and it just needs a little help as i can push it with my hand and make it shift. Could it be that I need to adjust it in the water?

 

[crb478]

Re: 1976 85hp johnson shifting problems

If you disconnect the cables can you shift it by hand? If it shifts correctly by hand I would look at the cables. It really sounds like the shifter rod has been moved and is no longer the correct length. Look in the top secret file at the beginning of these forums for the correct length. You should be able to set the shift out of the water and then set the idle in water in gear.